Selected theoretical perspectives of chronic pain. Specifying structural models

The gate control, operant-behavioral, and cognitive-behavioral theoretical perspectives conceptualize chronic pain with multiple interrelated facets. However, theory is lacking to allow a priori specification of a comprehensive network of interrelated facets to explain the chronic pain experience. In this Focus article descriptions from these theories of pain are translated into explicit structural equation models, in an effort to sharpen the focus on identifying the most salient variables and constructs and to lead to refinement of an overall comprehensive theory for understanding the experience of patients with chronic pain.